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Though Alabama isn't known for towering mountains, one of its nicknames is "Land of a Thousand Waterfalls." You'll find many scenic falls tucked into wilderness areas and forests, but the state's best waterfalls offer a combination of height, power and magnificent backdrops. These waterfalls are just one reason to explore Alabama's many state parks and wilderness areas.

Little River Canyon

OutdoorAlabama.com compares Alabama's Little River Canyon to the Yellowstone River Canyon. While that might be a little self-serving, given that the site is run by the Alabama state government, the National Park Service has called Little River "one of the most extensive canyon and gorge systems in the eastern United States," and the Alabama Environmental Council has designated it one of the 10 Natural Wonders of Alabama. The scenic gorge's cliffs tower up to 600 feet and a river that drops 1,350 feet in 12 miles. The gorge has two waterfalls, including the 45-foot Little River Falls in the Little River Canyon National Preserve.

Desoto State Park

The Little River also cuts through the heart of Desoto State Park, which is adjacent to Little River Canyon National Preserve. Located near the tiny town of Mentone, Desoto is known for its multiple waterfalls, with none more famous than Desoto Falls, a 100-foot spout that drops into a gorge below and ranks as the highest waterfall in Alabama. Other falls in the Desoto area include Lodge Falls, a 25-foot cascade behind Desoto Lodge, and Lost Falls -- a suitably named remote waterfall most visible in the spring and winter.

Sipsey Wilderness Waterfalls

One of two areas that the Alabama Tourism Department mentions in a piece about waterfalls is the Sipsey Wilderness in Bankhead National Forest. This protected wilderness in northwestern Alabama offers a multitude of waterfalls along the Sipsey River and adjoining creeks. According to the tourism department, the Sipsey is Alabama's only National Forest Service-designated "Wild and Scenic River." Can't-miss options include the impressive Falls Creek Falls, a showering spout, and Feather Hook Falls, a thin trickle that pours down about 75 feet.

Noccalula Falls

One of Alabama's most scenic waterfalls is Noccalula Falls on Lookout Mountain in Gadsden. While its 90-foot height puts it below Desoto Falls, Noccalula is wide and powerful, making it quite impressive to behold. It's part of Noccalula Falls Park, where you'll also find a pioneer village, a replica-train ride, hiking, camping and miniature golf after paying an admission fee.

About the Author

Joe Fletcher has been a writer since 2002, starting his career in politics and legislation. He has written travel and outdoor recreation articles for a variety of print and online publications, including "Rocky Mountain Magazine" and "Bomb Snow." He received a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Rutgers College.